Submandibular gland injury and delayed airway compromise caused by a seat belt

Abstract Isolated blunt injury to the submandibular gland (SMG) is rare owing to the protection afforded by the overlying mandible. Like other causes of submandibular swelling, glandular trauma can lead to life-threatening airway compromise, and this possibility should be considered in patients presenting with acute pain and fullness in the jaw and neck after trauma. We describe a patient with SMG disruption caused by a seat belt shoulder strap, discuss the diagnosis and treatment, and present a review of the literature.